Birmingham City are hopeful that Koby Arthur could be another star in the making.

The 17-year-old was handed a first team squad number this week, representing another significant step on his rise to prominence.

And Arthur’s story is a remarkable one as he was not long ago playing for Woodford United in the Evo-Stik League Southern.

The Northamptonshire-based club were his first port of call after coming over to England from Ghana.

Once his registration and necessary paperwork were processed, Arthur was able to play for Blues in the Birmingham Senior Cup at Stourbridge earlier this month and then, on Monday, in the development squad’s match against Leicester City.

“Koby’s been with us since pre-season time and we’ve had to wait a while before he could play,” said Richard Beale, Blues’ under-21/development squad coach.

“But in both games he did very well and he’s been assimilated into the reserve/first team group.

“He was spotted by one of our scouts, Ray Gooding, playing for Woodford and we brought him in.

“The manager watches all the reserve games and has got a very good handle on all the young players at the club.

“And he’s been very impressed with Koby.

“It’s early days, but we’re very hopeful that Koby will go on and continue to progress.

“He’s definitely got a chance.”

Arthur is 5ft 6in but muscular and strong. Quick, also.

He can play wide on the left, in central midfield or up front.

“He’s very energetic and has got that low centre of gravity that helps him beat players,” said Beale.

“He can take it on his left or right, and he’s got a tremendous attitude.

“Koby’s got a desire to do well, he works hard and he’s prepared to listen. The manager loves all of that.

“He’s the type of young, hungry player we’re after.”

Whilst the cat is now out of the bag with Arthur, one youngster who has gone under the radar recently is right-back Ryan Higgins.

The 18-year-old former Everton trainee has been named in Blues’ recent matchday squads.

Liverpool-born Higgins joined Blues on non-contract terms at the start of the season after impressing in a trial match and has been a regular for the development side.

“Ryan’s shown real commitment and desire to do all he can to become a footballer after his release by Everton, where he was for a long time,” said Beale.

“He’s one of those typical modern full-backs who attacks well and gets crosses into the box. He’s got a good delivery.”